Market happenings: Celebrate the season of the crunchy, spicy and vibrant radish at the Longmont Farmers Market's Radish Day this Saturday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. There will be a radish toss, radish tasting and crowning, chef demonstrations, face painting and even more radish fun.

Lots of this, please: Spring radishes are bursting onto the market street with shades of pink, red and purple force. Radishes come in many varieties each with their own level of mild, spice and crunch.

The farmer says: We guarantee you'll spot the spring radishes available at market without trouble. Shop around the waves of pink, and taste all the options. This emerging market favorite is grown by many farmers, but what makes the abundance so special are the varieties that set each apart. Find these common types — cherry belle, pink beauty, Easter egg and French breakfast, and other more unusual varieties, by asking your farmer.

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Spring radishes go in and out of season quickly. They grow fast and with ease, and are a great crop for any new gardner. The sprouts spring up in a couple days, and harvest in about four weeks. When the hot weather peaks spring radishes bolt and flower, but don't fret, winter radishes (daikon, watermelon, and Spanish black) will be ready for our baskets in the fall, and, if you play your storage cards right, well into the winter months. No wonder these vegetables are becoming a staple vegetable in Colorado kitchens.

How to prepare: The radish is the best veggie to bust out the mandoline slicer for. This kitchen appliance will whip up your radish salad fast and to perfection. Buying a couple of varieties of different colors will spice up your plate and palate.

How to store it: Cut off the greens (the greens extract moisture from the root) and store your unwashed radishes in a closed bag in the fridge. Wash before eating. Keep the greens for a smoothie, soup or pesto.

Good to know: This list represents a general overview of the week's harvest, not every item that is being produced locally. Some farms do not grow or have ready some items on the list.

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